About WCB

The Wildlife Conservation Board (WCB) was created by legislation in 1947 to administer a capital outlay program for wildlife conservation and related public recreation. Originally created within the California Department of Natural Resources, and later placed with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, WCB is a separate and independent Board with authority and funding to carry out an acquisition and development program for wildlife conservation (California Fish and Game Code 1300, et seq.). WCB's seven-member Board consists of the President of the Fish and Game Commission, the Director of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, the Director of the Department of Finance, and four public members, two appointed by the legislature and two by the Governor. Legislation that created WCB also established a Legislative Advisory Committee consisting of three members of the Senate and three members of the Assembly, which meet with WCB, providing legislative oversight.

The primary responsibilities of WCB are to select, authorize and allocate funds for the purchase of land and waters suitable for recreation purposes and the preservation, protection and restoration of wildlife habitat. WCB approves and funds projects that set aside lands within the State for such purposes, through acquisition or other means, to meet these objectives. WCB can also authorize the construction of facilities for recreational purposes on property in which it has a proprietary interest.

WCB's three main functions are land acquisition, habitat restoration and development of wildlife oriented public access facilities, which are carried out through its programs.

WCB Mission

The Wildlife Conservation Board protects, restores and enhances California’s spectacular natural resources for wildlife and for the public’s use and enjoyment in partnership with conservation groups, government agencies and the people of California.

WCB Values

The following values guide WCB policies and actions:

Science-Based Decision-Making – In consultation with CDFW, we take actions that reflect the best available conservation science.

Ecosystem Health and Diversity – We believe that optimizing ecosystem health and diversity of the natural world is paramount to everything we do.

Access to Nature – We believe all Californians deserve access to nature and wildlife-oriented recreation experiences, and strive to reach young people and urban and disadvantaged communities.

Collaborative Conservation – We work collaboratively, leveraging our relationships and building capacity for stewardship within the conservation community.

Lasting Results – We strive for tangible, sustainable projects that withstand the test of time.

Innovation – We embrace innovation and entrepreneurial ideas with a willingness to take calculated risks in fulfillment of WCB’s conservation vision.

Public Accountability and Transparency – We ensure public understanding of WCB practices, priorities and investments.

WCB Vision

WCB envisions a future in which California’s wildlife, biodiversity and wild places are effectively conserved for the benefit of present and future generations. WCB projects and programs maximize return on taxpayer investment in conservation and wildlife-oriented recreation, and empower and inspire current and future generations to protect California’s precious habitat and wildlife resources.

WCB Guiding Principles

WCB operates according to the following guiding principles:

We evaluate investment opportunities and outcomes proactively, leveraging the knowledge and resources of our many valued partners;

We focus on statewide habitat conservation priorities and priority landscapes that fully represent California’s major ecoregions while allowing flexibility for conservation projects of local and regional significance;

We build community capacity for conservation by empowering landowners to protect and enhance valuable habitat on their lands and share their success with others;

We create opportunities for meaningful wildlife-oriented recreation experiences, which inspire Californians across the State to serve as conservation stewards;

We advance the art and science of habitat conservation and management by holding ourselves, our conservation partners, and recipients of State resources to high standards;

We anticipate changing conditions and circumstances and plan for the long-term needs of wildlife communities and future generations of Californians; and

We coordinate with conservation partners across all sectors and regions to achieve lasting results